Financial Aid FAQs: What You Need to Know

So, you’ve submitted your application for admission to Notre Dame. If you applied Restrictive Early Action, you have received your decision; if you applied Regular Decision, you are still awaiting your decision.

In the meantime, we suggest that you submit your financial aid applications. You can submit them before you receive your admission decision—and we encourage it.

Here’s what you need to know.

Notre Dame meets the full demonstrated financial need of our undergraduate students for all four years. In fact, we’re one of only 66 colleges/universities in the nation that do.

The average incoming first-year student receives $39,100 in need-based gift assistance. Learn how other families in your income range funded a Notre Dame education here.

We know you may have some questions about financial aid and, along with the information below, you’ll find answers on our financial aid website.

How do I apply for financial aid at Notre Dame?
You’ll need to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE. These two documents are considered your application for financial aid at Notre Dame. Check out our timeline and procedures for applying for more information.

If it’s past the February 15 priority submission date, can I still submit my financial aid applications?
Yes. February 15 is a priority date, not a cutoff. Financial aid applications can be submitted after this date and will receive full consideration.

Does Notre Dame offer merit aid?
We offer a very limited amount of merit aid to incoming first-year students. Around three percent of incoming students receive merit aid. As of this time, students offered an invitation to our merit aid selection process have already received their invitations.